“Of course. Anything you want.”
“Cool. Just pepperoni for me, please.”
“Done. I’ll call you when it’s here.”
He nods once more and starts heading towards his room. Just as he’s about to vanish from the hallway, he pauses and turns to face me.
“I love you, Mum. It’s going to be okay.”
Oh, my heart. My sweet, precious boy.
“I love you, too, baby. And yes, it will be. We’re going to be alright.”
Chapter 29
Kaden
The Volkswagen Amarok cruises along the highway like skates gliding over thick ice, its powerful engine roaring as I push harder on the accelerator. The sound reverberates through the vehicle, sending a thrill deep into my bones, and I can’t stop the smile that spreads across my face.
I’m on my way to Jason’s restaurant to show him my shiny new toy after finally trading in my Mercedes for a utility vehicle. I’d grown tired of having to borrow Jason’s truck every time I needed to pick up large pieces of wood for my side projects, and if I’m being honest, I think Jason was getting sick of it too.
It was an easy trade. The Merc was still in excellent condition, and as much as I loved that car, it no longer suited me, or the life I’m living now.
Out with the old, in with the new, I told myself as I handed the keys over to the salesman at the dealership.
Even though it held years of fond memories, some beautiful, some bittersweet, it also carried reminders of a time wheneverything fell apart. Letting it go felt like closing a door I’d been standing in for far too long.
Like my apartment,this new car represents change, a new beginning, one built on the hope that the road ahead won’t look anything like the one behind me.
I finally arrive at Hawkins Bar and Grill, parking at my usual spot, a short stroll away from the entrance. Turning off the ignition, I breathe in that fresh new car smell once more, then slide out of the driver’s seat.
The restaurant is already buzzing when I step inside, filled with families and couples enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon. There’s something about the middle of spring that draws people out after months of being cooped up indoors, all of us eager to soak up the change in the air.
Gemma is sitting at the bar, chatting with a young female bartender. She doesn’t work here anymore, but now that she and Chris are officially dating, she sometimes stops by just to keep him company while he’s on shift. For two people who once swore off commitment, they’ve certainly found themselves in one now.
“Hey, Gemma.”
She spins around and smiles when she sees me. “Hey. Kaden. What brings you here today?”
“Just paying Jason a visit. You wouldn’t happen to know where he is by any chance?”
“He’s in his office with Chris and a few other people I believe.”
“Perfect! Thanks, Gem.”
“Hey, if you’re free next weekend, Chris and I are having a housewarming party. Well, more like a get together with some friends. Jason will be there. Apparently, Mila forced him to go because he hasn’t had a night out with friends in a while. She feels bad and has offered to mind the kids while he enjoys a night out to himself.”
“Yeah, that sounds good. Count me in.”
“Great! It starts at eight. You know the address, right?”
“No, but if I’m going with Jase, he’ll just tell me.”
“Okay, cool. Well, it’s great seeing you again, Kaden.”
“You too, Gem. Enjoy the rest of your day.”
“Same to you.”
